We’re very pleased to share that Isabella Tree’s Wilding, published by Picador, has reached the shortlist of the Wainwright Golden Beer Prize 2019.

Celebrating its sixth year, the Prize is awarded annually to the book which most successfully reflects the ethos of renowned nature writer Alfred Wainwright’s work, to inspire readers to explore the outdoors and to nurture a respect for the natural world.

“With our natural landscapes under increasing threat from the climate crisis, this is a crucial time to reconnect with nature,” the prize organisers said. “From personal journeys in wild places to rallying cries for change, the 2019 shortlist is essential reading in trying times.”

The judging panel for the 2019 prize will be chaired, for the third year running, by TV presenter Julia Bradbury. Her fellow judges include Waterstones non-fiction buyer Clement Knox; National Trust publisher Katie Bond; publisher at Unbound and joint-host of the popular podcast Blacklisted, John Mitchinson; David Lindo otherwise known as The Urban Birder; and Anna Arnell, creative partner for agency And Rising.

Bradbury said: “Within challenging times and facing a climate crisis, British nature writing continues to blossom. The books that my fellow judges and I have shortlisted for the Wainwright Golden Beer Book Prize demonstrate the role that nature writing can play in shining a spotlight on wider social, environmental and personal issues.”

The prize is supported by White Lion Publishing, publisher of the Wainwright Guides, Wainwright Golden Beer, the Wainwright estate and in partnership with the National Trust the winner will receive a cheque for £5,000.

The winner will be announced on 15th August at an event in the National Trust Arena at BBC Countryfile Live at Castle Howard, Yorkshire. Good luck Issy!